Queensland will play host to the best cricket, tennis, football and basketball in Australia as part of the state’s exciting calendar of summer sports.

Treasurer and Minister for Sport Curtis Pitt said he was excited to see so many home games and international tests being held in Queensland across a range of sports.

“It’s fair to say that we can look forward to a crackerjack summer of sport on Queensland fields and courts with so many events to attend.” Treasurer Pitt said.

“The Gabba will host the first Test of the Commonwealth Bank Series against Pakistan in December, the first Pink Ball Test to be staged at the ground.”

“With the recent $1 Million lighting upgrade to enable Day Night cricket to be played at the venue, I’m calling on Queenslanders to embrace the new timeslot and get along to enjoy a balmy night of Test Cricket at The Gabba.”

“Queenslanders are known around Australia for their love of cricket, so we’re also looking forward to a strong turn-out for the Brisbane Heat’s T20 Big Bash League games and the One Day International against Pakistan on 13 January.” Treasurer Pitt said.

Treasurer Pitt said the New Year would also see the beginning of the international tennis season with local favourites Sam Stosur, Bernard Tomic and John Millman joining the all-star field including Rafael Nadal, Stan Warwinka and Svetlana Kuznetsova making the Brisbane International an event not to be missed.

“National leagues are also set to provide great family outings over the holiday break.” Treasurer Pitt said.

“In basketball, fans and visitors across Brisbane and Cairns can look forward to some great entertainment as the Brisbane Bullets and Cairns Taipans compete in an exciting season of the National Basketball League.”

“This year’s NBL season is proving to be one of the most competitive in recent memory, with only two losses separating the top and bottom of the ladder.”

QLD Treasurer and Minister for Sport Curtis Pitt

“In the Hyundai A-League we can look forward to a dynamic display of skills and rivalry and I encourage fans to attend as many games as possible to cheer on the Brisbane Roar.” Treasurer Pitt said.

“Our elite champions are without question an inspiration, setting a positive example for young Queenslanders, and we wish them great success as they compete on the national and international stage.”

“As a government, we’re always keen to encourage more Queenslanders of all ages to participate in sport and matches such as these play an important role in inspiring a passion for sports amongst young Queenslanders.”

“This summer will showcase a true celebration of the diversity of sports supported here in Queensland, and I encourage everyone to get behind their teams this summer and experience the great events the sporting industry has on offer.” Treasurer Pitt said.

Abbreviations

Gabba Brisbane Cricket Ground in suburb of Woolloongabba and known as Gabba